As we move into the heart of winter, I find myself reflecting on how lucky we are to have such a strong, connected community here at the Springfield Regional Chamber. The past few weeks have reminded me of the power of collaboration, the importance of supporting one another, and how much we can achieve when we come together.

I want to start by offering a heartfelt thank you to everyone who attended our Rise & Shine Breakfast: Ready for What’s Next: Navigating Major Incidents in an Uncertain World. Your participation made the event a meaningful conversation, and I truly appreciate your engagement as we explored how to better navigate the uncertainties that have shaped our world over the past year.

In the next few months, we have some exciting events we would love to have you be a part of. On March 7 we will host OUTLOOK at the MassMutual Center. This is our premier legislative and economic forecasting event, where you'll gain critical perspectives on the trends and policies shaping the future. It’s a great opportunity to connect with others, learn from expert speakers, and get a deeper understanding of the forces at play in our economy. We are thrilled to welcome Rick Klein, Vice President and Washington D.C. Bureau Chief for ABC News, as our keynote speaker, alongside esteemed guests such as Springfield Mayor Domenic J. Sarno and Massachusetts Taxpayers Foundation President Doug Howgate. OUTLOOK will also serve as the official launch of the chamber’s legislative agenda for the year, highlighting our key policy priorities. Adding a special touch, Todd Angilly, the official anthem singer for the Boston Bruins, will perform the National Anthem.

As we move into April, I’m excited for two important events that will make a real difference in our community. On April 1, we’ll come together for Fill the Food Bank, a collaborative event with the Greater Westfield, Greater Holyoke, West of the River, ERC5/East of the River, and Greater Chicopee Chambers of Commerce. Join us at the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts to help fight food insecurity. Your $25 ticket and donations of peanut butter and jelly (or monetary donations) will have a direct impact on those who need it most.

On April 10, we’ll be hosting our Rise & Shine Breakfast: Celebrating Immigrant Business Owners at MGM-Springfield. This event will celebrate the incredible contributions immigrant entrepreneurs have made to our region. I’m personally looking forward to hearing their stories and celebrating the diverse and thriving businesses that enrich our community.

And don’t forget about our Beacon Hill Summit on April 30 at the Massachusetts State House. This annual bus trip is an incredible opportunity to engage directly with policymakers and gain insights into the legislative issues that affect our businesses. We leave Springfield at 7 AM and return at 7 PM, making this a full day of meaningful dialogue with state leaders. It’s a great chance to make your voice heard and learn about the policies shaping the future of our region.

I encourage you to stay warm, stay connected, and stay involved as we continue navigating the challenges and opportunities this year brings. In times of unpredictability, it’s our community and the relationships we build that help us grow stronger. We’ve accomplished so much together already, and I look forward to all we will continue to achieve in the months ahead.

Thank you for your continued support, and I can’t wait to see you at OUTLOOK!